KUPPET rejects move aiming to make Math optional

The Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has firmly opposed the government's proposal to remove Mathematics as a mandatory subject at the senior school level.

The union argues that this decision could weaken educational standards and negatively impact the country’s workforce development.

This opposition follows a recent announcement by the Ministry of Education that, under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), Mathematics will no longer be a compulsory subject for senior secondary students—a major departure from the now-abolished 8-4-4 system.

Under the new curriculum, students will be required to study four core subjects: English or Kenya Sign Language, Kiswahili, Physical Education, and Community Service Learning. Additionally, they will select three more subjects from a list of 38 options.

However, KUPPET Acting Secretary General Moses Nthurima emphasized that Mathematics is a fundamental subject with applications across various disciplines, including humanities, sports, and STEM fields.

Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, Nthurima maintained that making Mathematics optional would negatively impact students' academic and career prospects.

“KUPPET rejects the government's proposal to make Mathematics an optional subject at the senior school level,” he asserted.

“Mathematics is crucial in developing a competent workforce for the 21st century. It also plays a significant role in the learning of various disciplines, including humanities, sports, and STEM fields.”

This comes weeks after the Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) raised concern over the government’s decision to exclude mathematics from the list of compulsory subjects.

The institution’s president Eng. Shammah Kiteme said the move is critical for the country’s long-term economic competitiveness in various sectors.

“We express deep concerns over the decision to remove mathematics as a compulsory subject in the Arts and Sports Science and Social Sciences pathways. While curriculum flexibility is valuable, this decision poses challenges that may impact Kenya’s workforce readiness and economic sustainability,” said Shammah.

The institution noted that a strong foundation in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) is essential for building a skilled workforce capable of driving industrialization, infrastructure development, and technological advancement.